Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) Practice Test

Which of the following best describes a bystander?

1. One who intervenes assertively

2. One who avoids the situation

3. One who observes a potentially harmful situation

4. One who takes charge of the situation

The correct answer is: One who observes a potentially harmful situation

A bystander is best described as someone who observes a potentially harmful situation. This term typically refers to individuals who are present during an event, especially in contexts where intervention may be required, but who do not take any action to change the outcome. The key characteristic of a bystander is that they are on the sidelines, watching what is happening without actively participating or intervening. In contrast, the other choices revolve around more active roles. For instance, intervening assertively or taking charge of the situation indicates someone who is proactive, seeking to influence or alter the circumstances at hand. Avoiding the situation suggests disengagement, but it does not capture the essence of being a bystander who is simply a witness to events without taking action. Therefore, the definition that identifies the bystander as an observer aligns closely with the fundamental nature of the term, making it the most accurate description.